The newly upgraded Eglinton playpark has officially reopened to the public following over £300,000 investment.

Work took place at the site to deliver environmental upgrades and install new equipment.

These works were led by contractor AMS Limited and involved the installation of many new features, including a wheelchair accessible multi-unit with different levels, towers, sensory panels, slides and climbing nets, a ground flush roundabout, ground flush trampoline, and a selection of swings for different ages and abilities, including a pendulum swing and a zip line. There is also a toddler area with a mini multi-unit, toddler swings and springers as well as tree planting, seating and picnic benches to provide quieter areas to play and socialise.

The project was delivered by Derry City and Strabane District Council with support from funding allocated by the Derry and Strabane Rural Partnership under Priority 6 (LEADER) of the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 supported by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and the European Union. 

Funding of £304,574 was provided to complete the work, with £217,285.50 from DAERA, £57,288.50 from Council and £30,000 allocated through the Department for Communities' Regional Access and Inclusion Capital Grant Programme, facilitated by DCSDC's Access and Inclusion Project.

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Speaking at the opening of Eglinton Play Park, Rural Affairs Minister, Edwin Poots MLA said: "I am pleased that the Northern Ireland Rural Development LEADER Programme 2014-2020, Village Renewal Scheme is making a real change to the fabric of rural villages and is supporting projects that are based on community need. I am delighted that this project will create a sense of civic pride in the village of Eglinton providing tangible benefits for users and will help this rural area reach its full potential. I want to thank Derry and Strabane Rural Action Group for all their hard work and dedication in bringing the project forward."

Attending the official opening of the playpark, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Sandra Duffy, commented: "It's a pleasure to be able to cut the ribbon on this amazing playpark in Eglinton village. This first class facility indicates the significance that Council continues to place on addressing play provision in our rural areas and providing a safe space for our local young people to exercise and to socialise, as well as their families. The new equipment caters for different ages and abilities and ensures that everyone will be able to enjoy this community space as their own. The environmental updates are also in line with Council's Green Infrastructure Plan which focuses on utilising natural spaces to provide environmental, economic and social benefits. Thanks to all the funders and partners involved in delivering this and best wishes to everyone in the Eglinton community as they enjoy this fabulous playpark."

Debbie Caulfield, Eglinton Community Association, added: "As a community we are absolutely over the moon to see this playpark open now for everyone to enjoy. It's a fantastic space and one that will be enjoyed by so many young people and families in Eglinton village and the surrounding areas and we look forward to it being packed with happy faces over the summer and beyond."